Keher: Dubs better than the Rebels

Dublin are more serious contenders than Cork for All-Ireland Hurling success in 2011.

That’s the view of Kilkenny legend Eddie Keher ahead of this weekend’s final round of Allianz League fixtures.

Cork take on the Dubs at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday, in what is a must-win game for Anthony Daly’s side if they are to secure a place in the Division One final.

Dublin have performed well throughout their league campaign, most recently in an enthralling drawn game against Kilkenny at Croke Park.

“I was very impressed by Dublin that day,” admitted Keher, a six-time All-Ireland winner with the Cats.

“I’d expect to see them in the running in both the league and the championship on a regular basis now. I like the style of hurling they’re playing and they’ve been a breath of fresh air.”

There’s little at stake for Cork on Sunday at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, as the Rebels play their final competitive game before their Munster SHC meeting with Tipperary in Thurles on May 29.

Denis Walsh’s side are safe from relegation but defeats to Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford have ended their hopes of reaching a second successive league decider.

“Cork will always be genuine All-Ireland contenders,” Keher said. “They’re in a phase of transition at the moment and it seems to be working well for them. They’re mixing the older fellas and the young guns nicely.

“I would see Dublin as having more genuine All-Ireland credentials than Cork, though. That’s what the recent form of both teams suggests to me.”

The bookmakers disagree with Keher, however.

Cork are currently 10-1 to lift Liam McCarthy, with Dublin available at 25-1.

While Tipperary and Kilkenny are the firm favourites, Keher believes Dublin are now next in line.

“I believe they have the potential to go all the way under Anthony Daly. He played on a very successful Clare team that came from nowhere to win two All-Irelands and I’d say he’s capable of helping Dublin to do the same.”

Article courtesy of the Evening Echo newspaper.